Sitting Okotoks town councillor Ken Heemeryck is seeking re-election for a third term.

Heemeryck is the only current councillor running again in the upcoming election and is looking to use his experience to assist new councillors in moving forward if elected.

Among his goals would be to build on the affordable housing strategies previously put in place, increasing the downtown revitalization with more parking, and of course, find a resolution to the longstanding water issue.

"This water file has been in front of us for the full eight years that I've been on council and we've talked to senior government officials regarding what can work and can't work. The only reasonable solution is a water pipeline from the Bow River. So not from Calgary, but from the Bow River. Right now we're partnering with Foothills County and in discussion with others on how to make that happen all while being in discussion with the provincial government as well."

He also mentioned a few additions he'd like to see in town, including a new pool as well as a performing arts centre.

Regardless of the outcome on election day, Heemeryck is proud to look back on his eight years on council, particularly when it comes to this previous term.

"It's been a pretty incredible last few years, I think. We've built a new hockey arena with the leisure ice, we've built a new library, we've created public transit, we've enhanced the pathway system and the walking bridge system, we've created affordable housing initiatives that will dramatically change people's ability to afford to live in Okotoks, which is incredibly important. So we've accomplished a lot in the last four to five years, all with a zero per cent tax increase in the last two years."

With the amount of turnover we'll be seeing on Okotoks Council, Heemeryck says his experience would be a good asset moving forward.

"No matter what you've done in the past, it's a brand new and different and challenging job. There will be a very steep learning curve, I know it's kind of cliche but it's very true. Right away, within a couple weeks we'll go and set the budget for next year, which, someone who hasn't done it before will need to learn that part. There is a huge loss of experience on council. I don't think there's been this much turnover in, I think at least 30 years."

As far as why he's looking to increase that tenure, Heemeryck simply feels he's still got more to give to his town.

"I love the Town of Okotoks. I like to be a part of the community and this is a way to do that. I'm experienced at this job now, the role of town councillor, and I think I can help the community in that role."

For more information on local candidates, head to our Municipal Election 2021 page.

 

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